Time is running out for former 49ers and Raiders linebacker Aldon Smith, who at 28 years old is at least five years removed from peak form as he serves an indefinite NFL suspension and faces legal problems stemming from his most recent arrest.
After examining the careers of 10 athletes Monday who saw their careers take a hit because of problems with drugs, alcohol or both, here are 10 who got their livelihood back after the bad times:
1. Dennis Eckersley
A former 20-game winner, the life of the former Washington High (Fremont) star was at a crossroads after going 6-11 with a 4.